There is no cost to submit an application or to attend. University Prep is a network of free public schools.
University Prep does not discriminate against or limit the admission of any student on the basis of ethnicity, national origin, gender, disability, housing status, intellectual ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, athletic ability, race, creed, national origin, religion or ancestry.
No action by a student or family member—such as an admissions test, interview, essay, or attendance at an information session—is required in order for an applicant to either receive, or submit an application for, admission to University Prep.
Eligibility requirements
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Any child currently in grades 4, 5, 6, 8, or 9 may apply.
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Any child who is a resident of New York State may apply.
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Children who are currently enrolled, have a sibling in middle school or high school at University Prep Public Schools or who live in Community School District 7 have admissions priority.
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Admission is determined by lottery. The 2026 Lottery will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
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The application deadline is March 31; applications received after the deadline will be considered waitlist applications.
Attend an Open House
We would love to meet you and tell you more about University Prep. Come to an open house to learn about our program, meet school leaders, talk to current students, and ask your questions. Register by clicking on any of the below dates to attend an open house below.
UPCOMING HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES
Have a question?
Check out our admissions FAQ below or email shausthor@uppublicschools.org.
With 99% of students graduating high school in four years and a 100% college acceptance rate, a 5 - 12 focus on literacy, and a commitment to forging tomorrow's leaders, University Prep Public Schools is an excellent choice for students anxious to begin and complete their journey toward the college of their choice!
Current 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, and 10th graders can apply via the School Mint on a phone, tablet or computer. Applications should be submitted by April 1st. Applicants are selected through a lottery and will either be accepted or placed on a waitlist. For more information, contact shausthor@uppublicschools.org. Apply Now!
In early April, as all NYC Charter Schools do, University Prep Public Schools holds its annual lottery. This is a live event where applications are selected at random for the available seats. Once the names have been read for the available seats, the remaining applications are placed on a waitlist in the order in which they were pulled. If you are not immediately accepted, DON'T DESPAIR, it is likely you still may be called from the waitlist.
Only 45% of current UP students live in district 7. We have students from all over the Bronx! In the lottery, applications from district 7 and siblings of current UP students receive priority. However, each year there are still available seats for outside districts to join the gators!
Yes, there is. Students are required to wear navy blue, collared shirts, beige khaki pants, and all black shoes or sneakers. The school logo is optional but large clothing company logos are not allowed. This is strictly enforced as it encourages student responsibility, helps keep our students safe, and builds school identity.
Every UP adult takes safety very seriously. All community members are aware of and must maintain school norms, and adhere to structures put in place. Students are supported and supervised. Violations of norms from uniform infractions to anything more serious are addressed as soon as possible and have the appropriate consequences.
At University Prep, learning doesn’t end when the school day does. We offer a wide range of FREE after-school programs, helping students grow academically, socially, and personally. All activities are led by our own dedicated staff, creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where students can explore their interests and discover new passions. From 25+ different clubs to competitive sports teams and student work opportunities that build leadership and real-world skills, there’s something for everyone. Our high school office hours also provide additional academic support and guidance to ensure every student has what they need to succeed. See a sample of UP High School after school programming / see UP Middle after-school programming.
